The Har Hebron Regional Council has announced two new communities, Magad and Nofei Gulot, and six agricultural farms in the southern Hebron Hills. Arutz Sheva reported that the council presented the plan as its response to Friday's terror attack near Hebron, in which two IDF soldiers were killed.
The council said the initiative has the support of the Defense Ministry's Settlement Administration and the Amana settlement movement.
For residents of the southern Hebron Hills and those who travel its roads, the council said the new sites are intended to improve security along roads and in open areas. It also said the plan aims to strengthen Israel's presence in the region, establish territorial continuity and protect state land.
Magad is planned between Negohot and Eshkolot. Nofei Gulot is planned near Otniel.
The council listed the following locations for the six farms:
- Mitzpe Tzur Farm, near Telem, close to the site of Friday's attack
- Noi Farm, between Karmei Yehuda and Adora
- Lev Amit Farm, near Adora
- Eshel Farm, between Negohot and Eshkolot, near the planned community of Magad
- Lema'an Achai Farm, between Otniel and Shima
- Mitzpe Or Farm, between Carmel and a nature reserve in the Judean Desert
Council head Eliram Azulai said that the plan is a reply to terror.
"Terrorism seeks to destroy lives, spread fear, and undermine our hold on our homeland, but our historic and Zionist response is being written on the ground. We will not retreat or give in."
"Out of the immense pain and grief over the loss of our heroic soldiers, we choose life and deepen our roots. The establishment of two communities and six farms sends a clear message: We are here to stay, build, and grow," Azulai added.
